Fans are a great, budget-friendly alternative to air conditioners. They feature spinning blades to help air circulate in a room. Apart from being energy-efficient, fans are also a fantastic way to cool down without feeling frozen.
There are tons of fan options in the market, with pedestal and tower fans being the most popular. To find the best one for your needs, consider the size of your room, the fan's noise levels and speed settings and its price. Consider other features like remote control, timers and blade material.
For this list, we evaluated different fans available on various online retailers, including Amazon, Appliances Online and Harvey Norman. We picked models based on customer reviews and ratings. We also chose the units for each category based on key product features, such as value for money, noise levels and design.
The Standing 3D Connect Air Circulator is our pick as the best overall fan on the market right now. With an impressive 4.45-star rating on both Myer and The Good Guys, it's a crowd-pleaser that's met with enthusiastic reviews.
The 12-inch, 9-blade configuration ensures strong air circulation, and the Wi-Fi control via the Breville Home Connect App provides convenience at your fingertips. The 3D auto air circulation offers horizontal and vertical 90-degree auto oscillation; every corner of the room gets a refreshing breeze.
However, this model's featherweight status at 2.94 kg might seem like a pro for portability, but it could also mean less stability. It's worth considering whether it might easily tip over in a busy household or during a particularly gusty day. Secondly, some might prefer a repair warranty that could extend the unit's life further. Despite these minor quibbles, this fan's top-notch features and positive customer feedback make it a standout choice.
We recommend the Honeywell QuietSet Whole Room Tower Fan as the top-tier tower fan choice.
With a sleek design and a whisper-quiet operation, it's hard not to be impressed by this fan's powerful cooling capacity. One can't ignore its impeccable rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars earned from over 28,000 Amazon reviews, demonstrating customer satisfaction and trust in the product.
The fan has an 8-speed powerful cooling option, catering to varying temperature needs. The dimming feature, oscillation, and touch button electronic controls perfectly balance functionality and convenience.
Note that the fan requires 2 AAA batteries for the remote control. These batteries are not included in the package, which can be inconvenient. Furthermore, the setup process, while easy, still requires some assembly.
The Pelonis PFS40D6ABB DC Motor Ultra Quiet 16-inch Pedestal Fan is our choice when it comes to the best pedestal fan out there. It's got an impressive rating on Amazon – a solid 4.6 out of 5 stars- a testament to its superb performance and quality.
This fan is a power-packed unit with 12 speed settings, an ultra-quiet operation, and a multi-function remote control. It's ideal for large rooms, with its sturdy motor, generous oscillation, and tilt angles ensuring every corner is covered.
But the base is a tad on the large side compared to the fan size, which can be a bit of a space hog in smaller rooms. Also, some users have found the remote not as user-friendly as they would like. But, these are relatively minor concerns when weighed against the fan's overall performance.
The Westinghouse Lighting Flora Royale Ceiling Fan is easily one of the best ceiling fans available on the market right now. With a spectacular 4.4 out of 5-star rating on Amazon, its quality and performance are backed by numerous positive user feedback.
The fan features a 76 cm/30-inch reversible six-blade design that suits rooms up to 12 sqm. The 153-by-12-millimeter silicon steel motor with a dual capacitor ensures quiet operation, which is a major bonus.
However, it's important to take note of a couple of minor drawbacks. The pull chain included for regulating the fan speed and light is a bit on the short side, which may be a slight inconvenience. And a bulb is not included in the package, meaning you'll need to purchase one separately.
With an impressive 5 out of 5-star rating on Appliances Online, the Dimplex 96cm DC Tower Fan DCTF96WT is our pick for the best bedroom fan.
Its sleek, modern look, dressed in white, not only cools your room but also enhances its aesthetic appeal, seamlessly blending with any decor. The three modes - Normal, Natural, and Sleep - also offer a natural and nuanced cooling experience, ensuring optimal comfort in your space.
Plus, its multi-directional airflow, powered by the 75-degree oscillating base and a direct current motor, makes it a perfect fit for smaller spaces. A diverse range of 15 speed settings and a handy timer further add to its appeal.
However, it's worth noting that some users have mentioned that it is a tad noisy. The build also feels flimsy. While this doesn't generally impact the fan's functionality, it's something to remember if durability is a key factor for your selection.
The SmartDevil Small USB Desk Fan is all about packing a punch in a small package. It has a 4.4 out of 5-star rating from over 3,000 Amazon reviews, making it our choice for the best desk fan available online.
Despite its size, this compact, 9 oz fan offers a whisper-quiet experience with noise levels less than 50 dB, making it the perfect companion for home, office, camping, or travel.
Plus, Its 360° adjustability ensures the breeze hits the right spot every time. The fan's three-speed adjustability makes it adaptable to various temperature environments, giving you control over your comfort. The 38-inch USB cable also allows it to be powered by anything from a PC to a power bank.
But it's not all smooth sailing. A couple of areas could use improvement. Firstly, the compact size may not be sufficient for larger spaces requiring more airflow. Plus, its reliance on a USB-enabled power supply limits its versatility, as it can't be used in places without an accessible USB port.
The Dyson Cool Purifying Tower Fan TP07 is undoubtedly one of the best quiet fans on the market. With an impressive rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars on Myer and The Good Guys, it's clear that this fan is a favourite among consumers.
It's equipped with advanced features like the Air Multiplier™ technology that allows it to circulate purified air efficiently, and it's also designed to be 20% quieter, making it a perfect companion for those tranquil moments in your day.
The Dyson TP07 doesn't just cool the air but purifies it too. Its innovative filtration system, including HEPA H13 and activated carbon filters, captures 99.95% of particle pollution, making it an optimal choice for those with sensitivities. Control features are top-notch, allowing for voice control, app control, and a dimmed display for night mode.
The most notable downside is its hefty price tag. At $799, the Dyson TP07 is definitely on the more expensive end of the spectrum. Another minor quibble is that while it oscillates up to 350°, it can't turn a full 360°, which might limit its airflow in certain spaces.
The Dyson Pure Hot Cool Purifying Fan Heater gets the nod for the top spot as the best bladeless fan in the market.
Highly rated on Bing Lee and The Good Guys with 4.3 out of 5 stars, it removes an astounding 99.95% of allergens and pollutants. It captures even ultra-fine particles down to 0.1 microns, which includes pollen, bacteria, and pet dander. Thanks to a dense layer of tris-impregnated carbon crystals, it also handles gases, odours, and domestic fumes.
The fan's Air Multiplier technology and oscillation ensure a long-range stream of purified air throughout the room. Its multi-functionality is also a highlight, serving as a winter purifying heater and a summer cooling fan. Plus, it has a Jet Focus control feature for personal and room heating.
While the device keeps it safe and sound all night with its intelligent thermostat and built-in sleep timer, it also boasts an independent motor driving oscillation, turning it on and off with a simple button.
A couple of points to be aware of - the price tag might be a bit steep for some budgets. And despite having a quiet operation in the highest setting, it might emit a noise level that could distract light sleepers.
With a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars on Myer and The Good Guys, we also picked the Cool Purifying Tower Fan TP07 as the best Dyson option.
It boasts real-time detection and reporting of airborne particles and gases, a feature that truly sets it apart. In addition, the fan's HEPA H13 and activated carbon filtration system work in harmony to remove gases and 99.95% of particle pollution, ensuring clean, purified air around the clock.
What's more, it's equipped with the unique Air Multiplier technology, which generates the circulation power to purify an entire room. The machine as a whole, not just the filter, meets the HEPA H13 standard, ensuring that what goes inside stays inside. With the bonus of cooling capabilities during warmer weather, quiet operation, and convenient remote control, it's a perennial favourite.
However, note that the somewhat large base might not be ideal for compact spaces. Also, it's important to keep an eye on the filter-life notifications, as the fan requires regular filter changes for optimal operation.
Our team picked the LUMENA-FS-BK Cordless Fan as the best camping. It has a solid rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars on Amazon.
This compact and cordless device can be conveniently carried along on every outdoor adventure. Plus, its powerful 4,000 mAh battery can deliver up to 20 hours of usage on a single full charge. It also boasts an impressive reach with its air circulator covering distances up to 8m, and the airflow can be adjusted in four different levels.
The fan even comes with a washable removable front guard - a handy feature for maintaining cleanliness. Its silent DC motor design is also worth mentioning, making it a perfect companion for those quiet nights in the wilderness. Moreover, it can be a lifesaver in emergencies like outdoor fires.
Despite its numerous merits, it's important to note that the LUMENA-FS-BK may be too small for some users, especially if they're seeking to cool a larger space. It's also a bit noisier than some of its competitors, so consider that if you're looking for something more discreet.
The SEEKR Bora 12V Marine Fan by Caframo is our pick for the best caravan fan. Sporting a solid rating of 4.2 stars on Amazon, this fan is certainly a crowd-pleaser.
Its high-efficiency blades and compact design make it highly suitable for narrow spaces, while the adjustable tilting head directs the airflow exactly where it's needed. The fan's power draw is low, preserving your vehicle's battery life, and it provides 3e speed settings for versatile control. And the 5000+ hour motor life ensures that the fan will keep cool air circulating for a long time.
However, no product is without its shortcomings. The SEEKR Bora fan is wired directly into the vehicle's electrical system, which might pose a challenge for those who aren't adept at electrical work. Additionally, while the compact design is a plus for smaller spaces, the fan might not be powerful enough to cool larger areas effectively.
When it comes to affordable cooling solutions, we recommend the Midea Electric Fan FT45-14AP. This gem has a commendable 4.7 out of 5-star rating on Appliances Online and Catch, proving its worth in the eyes of many happy customers.
With three speed settings, tilt adjustability, and metal fan blades that deliver maximum air movement, it's a great bargain. Plus, it's designed for durability with a tubular steel construction, and the carry handle is a neat, practical feature.
But its design may be a little bulky for compact spaces, and a 2-year warranty is okay but doesn't quite match up to the extended warranties offered by other brands. Nevertheless, for a budget-friendly choice, this fan is a real winner.
We selected Dyson's Pure Hot+Cool Purifying Fan as the best premium fan. On JB Hi-Fi and Harvey Norman, it has a rating of 4.55 out of 5 stars.
Dyson's Pure Hot+Cool Purifying Fan has a HEPA H13 and activated carbon filters that help remove gasses and 99.95% of particle pollution. It helps circulate cool, purified air during summer. During cold months, it can be transformed into a purifying heater. This unit also has a diffused mode and a night mode for ease of use.
Customers praised the fan's quiet operation, sleek design and versatility. It oscillates up to 350° and offers easy filter care, so you don't have to worry about cleaning. Its AirMultiplier technology and oscillation also help deliver a long-range stream of purified air into the room without any visible spinning blades.
Save on space and create a show-stopping office with Fantastic Furniture's sleek and contemporary home office furniture packages. Hurry, while stocks last. T&Cs apply.
For this list, we looked into hundreds of fans listed in various online retailers like Amazon, Appliances Online and Harvey Norman. We evaluated models from the following brands:
Breville
Celsius
De’Longhi
Dimplex
Dyson
Goldair
Heller
Honeywell
Midea
Omega
Pelonis
SmartDevil
Sunbeam
Vornado
Westinghouse
We narrowed down our choices based on customer ratings and reviews (as of September 2023). We also considered each model's key product features, value for money, noise level and speed settings. We came up with what we believe are the 7 best fans you can buy in Australia right now.
Best Rated Fan Brand: Lucci Air
Lucci Air offers DC and AC ceiling fans in a wide range of materials and designs. 90% of surveyed customers recommend Lucci Air fans, giving the brand the highest overall rating. Users also gave high scores for the fans' ease of use, design, functions, features and value for money.
Fans are alternatives, or supplements, to air conditioners. They work by pushing and pulling air through the space in which they are positioned. Pedestal fans and ceiling fans use blades that spin in one direction to create moving air, while tower fans use impeller blades that help to push and pull air through vents in the tower.
Fans run at a fraction of the cost of air conditioners. If you're worried about mounting electricity bills, or your environmental footprint, then a ceiling, pedestal or tower fan could be the way to go.
Also, air conditioners "chill" a room with cool air. Some people find this to be uncomfortable. If you want to cool down without being frozen, then a fan is the right option for you.
Ceiling vs pedestal vs tower fans
Ceiling fans typically have a higher upfront cost but can add to the design of a room. Pedestal and tower fans are more portable, but take up floor space and usually use more electricity than modern ceiling fans.
Ceiling fans. Ceiling fans can be installed in most rooms that are 2.4 metres high or higher. Many ceiling fans have reversible motors so the blades can push down hot air in winter and cool air in summer. Some fans also include integrated lights.
Pedestal fans. Pedestal models are traditional portable fans that use spinning blades. They can be very affordable and come in a number of sizes. Large pedestal fans can cover bigger areas and are suitable for open spaces such as living rooms and offices. Pedestal fans run economically, and you can purchase fans with adjustable height stands and rotating fan heads. For more information, check out our round-up of the best pedestal fans.
Tower fans. Tower fans are columns and typically sit closer to the floor. They work efficiently in tight rooms and only take up a small amount of floor space. Louvres can push airflow up, allowing for a broad scope of coverage. Many newer designs offer built-in features such as ionisers and dust filters, which can improve air quality within contained spaces. Some people find tower fans more aesthetically pleasing than pedestal fans, which is a positive for decor-heads.
How to compare fans
Before you buy a new fan, consider the following:
Space
Know which room you primarily want to use your fan in. If it's a wide-open space, maybe a larger pedestal fan is the best option. If it's a small bedroom, a compact tower fan could be the way to go. Ceiling fans can add to the design of a room while keeping you cool.
Timers
Timers serve numerous functions. If you're using the fan in a bedroom, you can set a timer to power it off while you are asleep. If you know you'll be arriving home from a hot day of work, you can set the timer to turn on just before you walk through the door.
Speed settings
Adjustable speed settings allow you to moderate temperature within your space. You may want a strong wind one moment and a gentle breeze the next. Variable speed settings allow you to do this.
Height and angle
Pedestal fans tend to allow for greater heights and angle flexibility, but tower fans can offer a wide scope of coverage as well, so don't discount them automatically. Think about how you'll use your fan, and where you'll want the airflow directed.
Remote
Does your fan come with a remote? Remotes are more common with ceiling and tower fans, and they allow you to adjust settings and special features.
Noise
Tower fans are usually quieter, and some offer night modes that operate at slower speeds and volumes. In general, higher fan speeds are noisier, but loose mechanisms can also generate sounds. If you're happy to spend money on a more expensive model of pedestal or tower fan, this may make a difference in the noise level.
How to clean a fan
Cleaning your fan is crucial because they collect dust, even if it is bladeless. If dust gets into the motor or mechanism, it may cause the fan to malfunction and run slower.
How often you should clean your fan varies depending on how often you use it. As a general rule, if you can see dirt or dust on the fan, it's time to give it a clean. However, if someone in your household is sensitive to dust, we recommend cleaning it every 1 to 2 weeks.
For a ceiling fan, simply wipe down the blades with a damp cloth, making sure not to drop any of the dust onto the surface below.
If your fan has blades, you'll need to unplug the fan, remove the cage and then wipe it down. To clean the blades, go over them with a dust cloth to get rid of the first layer of dirt. Next, use a damp cloth to wipe down the surface and ensure the area is clean. If there are any stubborn or hard-to-reach spots, you can use an old toothbrush. Once you put the cage back on, you can use the fan again without the dust.
To clean a bladeless fan, use a dust cloth to wipe down the entire surface, including the air intake holes at the base.
Frequently asked questions
When selecting a fan for cooling purposes, you'll want to consider both the size and type of fan you need. The fan size should match your needs and requirements, as a large or powerful fan won't necessarily be necessary if you're trying to cool a small area.
Yes, bladeless fans are great for cooling. Bladeless fan designs allow for a more efficient airflow and thus can provide improved cooling. They also don't create the noise that traditional fans do, and they look much sleeker than other conventional fan types.
When selecting the best fan for a bedroom, it's important to consider both the size and type of fan you need. Generally, a large fan with more powerful airflow is ideal for cooling larger bedrooms because it will help circulate air efficiently and quickly. However, a smaller desktop or wall-mounted fan would be sufficient if your bedroom is relatively small.
Yes, you can run an electric fan for 24 hours. But you should not leave fans running for extended periods if they appear to have problems or look extremely worn out.
To ensure your fan provides optimal airflow and avoid any irritation from dust and other particles, you should clean your fan at least twice a month. The frequency of cleaning depends on the type of fan you have, how often it is used, where it is located and how many people it serves.
A fan's energy consumption depends on its size and motor. For example, a 12V and 24V mini fan can consume about 6W, while a DC automotive fan can use 12 to 24W. Small table fans can use up to 30W and large options can consume up to 55W.
Best rated fan brand award breakdown
Data: Finder Retail Brand Survey, 2019, Roy Morgan. Metric out of 5 stars unless otherwise indicated.
Overall rating
Recommended
Durability
Value for Money
Functions & features
Ease of use
Performance
Design
Lucci Air
4.35
90%
4.35
4.39
4.45
4.55
4.45
4.5
Convair
4.13
92%
3.77
4.36
3.96
4.58
4.21
4.13
Mercator
4
100%
4.11
4.5
4.11
4.17
4.28
4.06
Kambrook
4.03
88%
4.01
4.06
3.83
4.35
4.02
4.05
Heller
4
91%
3.92
4.17
4.13
4.42
4.14
4
Dyson
3.97
92%
4.22
3.44
4.03
4.2
4.18
4.3
Sunbeam
3.81
92%
3.8
3.77
3.88
4.03
3.9
3.95
Arlec
3.76
84%
3.85
4.09
3.8
4.26
3.83
3.78
Target
3.66
84%
3.56
3.91
3.41
4.06
3.78
3.66
De'Longhi
3.64
80%
3.45
3.18
3.5
3.55
3.54
3.73
Goldair
3.6
81%
3.42
3.72
3.48
3.94
3.63
3.46
Martec
3.54
69%
3.35
3.54
3.5
4.08
3.46
3.42
Aeratron*
5
100%
5
5
5
5
5
5
Aeroblade*
4.25
100%
4.67
4.13
3.63
4
4.25
3.63
Dimplex*
4.25
88%
4
4.13
3.81
4.19
4.19
4
Fanaway*
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
Fanco*
2.5
50%
3
3.33
2.33
3.33
2.5
2.83
GVA*
4.08
80%
4.25
4.25
3.67
4.25
4.08
4
Hunter Pacific*
4
4
3.5
4
3.5
3.5
3.5
Omega Altise*
4.29
100%
4.57
4.29
4.29
4.5
4.43
4
Ronson*
4.2
75%
4.3
3.9
4.4
4.1
4.2
4
Vornado*
4.11
100%
4.44
3.89
3.72
4.61
4.33
4.11
*Brand did not meet the sample threshold to qualify for the award
Data: Finder Retail Brand Survey, 2019, Roy Morgan. Metric out of 5 stars unless otherwise indicated. Methodology and more info.
Why you can trust Finder Shopping best guides
We're knowledgeable
Our editorial team has decades of experience testing and comparing products. We only use experienced journalists with proven track records.
We're comprehensive
We assess hundreds of products for each guide to ensure you're getting a full overview of the market. All guides are regularly reviewed and fact-checked.
We don't cut corners
Selections are based on our own research, comparisons and testing. We do not use automation software or AI. Every best guide follows a stringent methodology.
Ericka Pingol is a writer for Finder specialising in reviews. She has previously written articles about property investment, finances, and health. She’s a huge fan of Tina Fey, bubble teas and dogs. Ericka has a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of the East, Manila and is currently writing her thesis for a Master’s degree in Communication
Our team has scoured the internet to find the 10 best ceiling fans you can get online.
Feedback
How likely would you be to recommend finder to a friend or colleague?
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Very UnlikelyExtremely Likely
Required
Thank you for your feedback.
Our goal is to create the best possible product, and your thoughts, ideas and suggestions play a major role in helping us identify opportunities to improve.
Important information about this website
findershopping.com.au is one of Australia's leading comparison websites. We are committed to our readers and stands by our editorial principles
We try to take an open and transparent approach and provide a broad-based comparison service. However, you should be aware that while we are an independently owned service, our comparison service does not include all providers or all products available in the market.
Some product issuers may provide products or offer services through multiple brands, associated companies or different labeling arrangements. This can make it difficult for consumers to compare alternatives or identify the companies behind the products. However, we aim to provide information to enable consumers to understand these issues.
We make money by featuring products on our site. Compensation received from the providers featured on our site can influence which products we write about as well as where and how products appear on our page, but the order or placement of these products does not influence our assessment or opinions of them, nor is it an endorsement or recommendation for them.
Products marked as 'Top Pick', 'Promoted' or 'Advertisement' are prominently displayed either as a result of a commercial advertising arrangement or to highlight a particular product, provider or feature. Finder may receive remuneration from the Provider if you click on the related link, purchase or enquire about the product. Finder's decision to show a 'promoted' product is neither a recommendation that the product is appropriate for you nor an indication that the product is the best in its category. We encourage you to use the tools and information we provide to compare your options.
Where our site links to particular products or displays 'Go to site' buttons, we may receive a commission, referral fee or payment when you click on those buttons or apply for a product. You can learn more about how we make money.
When products are grouped in a table or list, the order in which they are initially sorted may be influenced by a range of factors including price, fees and discounts; commercial partnerships; product features; and brand popularity. We provide tools so you can sort and filter these lists to highlight features that matter to you.
Please read our website terms of use and privacy policy for more information about our services and our approach to privacy.
Fantastic Furniture
Temu
Dyson
Amazon
eBay Australia
Kogan
Appliances Online
Tentworld
Fatcow
Fanatical
19
70+
13
